Sandy Beaches in Newquay
10 sandy beaches in Newquay - golden sands, white shell beaches, and broad sweeps of sand for building castles and soaking up the sun.
Cornwall has more sandy beaches per mile of coastline than almost anywhere in Britain. The north coast tends toward broad, open sandy bays backed by dunes, while the south coast hides smaller sandy coves between headlands. Sand colour varies from golden to white depending on the local geology - the shell sand beaches around St Ives and Hayle are particularly fine. At low tide, many of these beaches extend significantly, giving you acres of space even in peak summer.
Fistral Beach
newquay
The UK's most famous surf beach - consistent Atlantic swells and a buzzing beach scene in Newquay.
Great Western Beach
newquay
Named after the Great Western Railway, this Newquay beach first introduced the town to surfing. Rock pools and sea caves at the base of the cliffs.
Lusty Glaze
newquay
Privately owned Newquay cove enclosed by 200ft cliffs, accessed by 133 steep steps only. Adventure centre, beachside restaurant and bar on sand.
Mawgan Porth
newquay
Wide north coast bay between Newquay and Padstow with rock pools at low tide and reliable surf. Surf schools, cafés, and dog-friendly year-round.
Porth Beach
newquay
Family-friendly bay north of Newquay with flat sand, a stream for paddling, and Iron Age cliff castle. Lifeguarded May-Sep, dog-free in summer.
Porth Joke (Polly Joke) Beach
newquay
Car-free cove between Crantock and Holywell Bay. Foot access only keeps it quieter than neighbours. Golden sand, wild cliffs, good surf.
Tolcarne Beach
newquay
Cliff-sheltered crescent beach in Newquay that connects to neighbouring beaches at low tide. Dog-friendly year-round, café on the sand, lifeguarded.
Towan Beach
newquay
Newquay's town beach with the famous island house on its suspension bridge. Sheltered cove at high tide, links to Great Western Beach at low tide.
Tregardock Beach
newquay
Remote north coast beach near Tintagel with powerful surf and dramatic rock formations. 15–20 min walk down steep path from car park.
Whipsiderry Beach
newquay
Sandy cove north of Newquay hemmed in by high cliffs with a quieter atmosphere than the main town beaches.
Places to Stay
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How many sandy beaches are there in Newquay?
- We list 10 sandy beaches in Newquay, out of 107 total beaches. Each beach page includes directions, a map, facilities information, and nearby accommodation.
- Which are the best sandy beaches in Newquay?
- All 10 beaches on this page match the "sandy" criteria. 7 of them have lifeguard cover during summer. 10 have parking nearby. Browse the full list below - each beach page has detailed information, photos, and a map.
- Where can I stay near sandy beaches in Newquay?
- Each beach page shows holiday cottages and properties within walking distance. You can also browse all places to stay in Newquay to find the right base for your beach holiday.
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